Emil Simani

May 6, 1925 – October 9, 2017

Emil passed away peacefully at Royal Arch retirement home in Vancouver at age 92. He was predeceased by his beloved wife Loni, daughters Eva and baby Angelika and brother Otto.

Emil is survived by grandchildren Brita (Mark), Robert (Kimberley) and Karen (Dan); great grandchildren Grace, Valerie, Tessa, Madeleine and Eriksen; son-in-law Ernest (Margaret); brother Leo (Lisa); and many loved sisters- and brothers-in-law, nieces, nephews, godchildren, and friends, both in Germany and Canada.

Born in the German community of Friedental in Crimea, Emil was the eldest son of Nathaniel and Eva. He survived difficult teenage years during the war. In 1953, he emigrated from Germany to Canada with his wife and daughter, eventually settling in Montreal, before moving to BC in retirement.

Emil had a long and distinguished career in construction. As Vice President, Operations, and one of the founders of Concordia Project Management Ltd, his legacy includes landmarks like Place Bonaventure in Montreal, the Canadian Museum of History, the Law Courts in Vancouver, and the Fairmont Chateau Whistler to name only a few.

Emil will be remembered as a hard-worker who also knew how to enjoy life to its fullest. He was an avid skier, travelling North America and Europe in search of the best slopes. He enjoyed a great bottle of wine, an afternoon on the patio, and energetic debates with friends.

Emil's family thanks the caring staff of Royal Arch Masonic Home. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to the Red Cross, a charity he supported throughout his life.

Mass will be held at Holy Rosary Cathedral, 646 Richards Street, Vancouver, at 10:00 am, November 10, 2017. Refreshments to follow at the Terminal City Club, 837 West Hastings, Vancouver, BC.